XStream Cave Tubing!!!
Well, it was not what I expected.
I think they should rename this tour the XStream "Rain Forest Trek and Cave Tubing".
Tender to shore.
Meet up with Richard and the others.
Load up in a couple of older model 15 passenger vans.
Ride 1 hour on pavement thru the city and less populated areas.
Looks very poor and reminds me how blessed I am.
Turn down a wore out dirt/gravel road with BIG potholes/ruts and bounce around for about 20 - 30 minutes.
Walk around in the mud to pick up your tube.
Hike about 5 minutes to the river/stream and wade thru waist-deep waters holding onto the ropes so you don't get swept downstream to get to the other side.
Hike another 55 minutes stopping a couple of times to discuss some dry caves.
Finally, set your tube in the water and drop your butt in the middle of it. Hang on to the wall and/or the other tubers until everyone gets in then let go and drift away.
Float / paddle with your arms to move for about an hour.
Try to hear the echoing instructions from Richard, Charles or Louis over the echoes of conversation from the other tubers.
Get out at the ropes and hike back to the parking lot - about 5 minutes.
If you have time you might be able to get lunch at the little restaurant / hut.
20 - 30 minutes thru the dirt /gravel road. 1 hour on the paved road. Grab some free fruit and juice from Richard. Get on the tender back to the ship.
Don't forget, you hiked thru the muddy trail and when you put your tube away, there is more mud. Mabye change clothes in the nasty bathrooms at the parking lot or stay in them for the ride back. What about those shoes?
I guess I didn't expect THAT far of a hike, THAT far of drive or all the mud.
I did it.
Probably wont do it again.
My wife didn't enjoy it, Neither did my neice or friend that went with us. Oddly enough, my sister-in-law had a great time.
